In prior posts I have provided a basic intro to peer support, some highlights from its history, and theories related to how it can contribute to suicide prevention. The next step is to provide research evidence that provide the foundation for describing this as a promising practice worthy of investment. Note: As described here and consistent with others, a “promising practice” is a program or other intervention that has the potential to effectively address suicidal…

Peer support has a long history and has garnered support from many important sources, as illustrated in part 2 of this series. Connecting someone who has survived a suicidal crisis to peers is one of the core values in The Way Forward, which states: As peers, we can provide social support and a sense of community while also sharing experiential knowledge and practical advice about coping skills, serving as positive role models for others. Furthermore,…

The intent of this second post is to illustrate that the concept of peer support is not new, and has a long and impressive history, which has included support from sources including SAMHSA and the U.S. Surgeon General, among others. This is not meant to be an exhaustive review of the history, but to provide a solid reference point. Highlights from the History of Peer Support Suicide Attempt Survivors in Suicide Prevention As noted…

There have been questions from multiple sources about recommendations about use of peers in suicide prevention that are included in The Way Forward, released by the Suicide Attempt Survivors Task Force of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention. This sparked the series of posts that will present my perspective on the topic. To begin, it seemed right to begin with some basics about what I’m referring to by “peer supports.” What is a peer? A…

It is often helpful to meet with others who have similar experiences. In many cases peer help can be found through support groups. Check out: Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) – for people with depression or bipolar disorder National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – for people with a mental illness and their families Attemptsurvivors.com collects information about support groups for people who have lived through a suicide attempt or suicidal crisis. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Narcotics…